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Cottee excited by potential move for Downing

Former West Ham striker Tony Cottee is confident that Liverpool winger Stewart Downing would be a good addition to the London side.

The 29-year-old midfielder, who made 29 league appearances for Liverpool last season despite being told he was not in manager Brendan Rodgers' plans, is reportedly close to a move away.

And with Upton Park looking likely to be the destination, Cottee feels that it would be a great bit of business for Sam Allardyce.

"I thought he was outstanding at Aston Villa and he deservedly got his big-money move," the 48-year-old told talkSPORT.

"It hasn't quite worked for him at Liverpool and he has lost his way a bit, but I think what Sam will do, and is good at, is put an arm around him, tell him how great he is and put him in the first team, and I think potentially he could be a really good buy for the club.

"The club have stated their intentions by signing Andy Carroll and looking to sign the likes of Stewart Downing, because it is a lot of money to spend. They are looking to push on.

"I don't expect them to qualify for Europe, but they finished 10th last year, why can't they finish ninth this year and push the club forward?"

Allardyce's side begin the new season on Saturday against newly promoted Cardiff City.